William Harris, 63

Active in Gold Star Families and VFW

Tuesday, January 29th, 2019 12:03 PM

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William Harris

William John (Bill) Harris, 63, formerly of Oak Park, died on Jan. 21, 2019 at his home in Brookfield following an extended illness. A 1973 graduate of Oak Park and River Forest High School, he received additional training in heating and air conditioning and was employed by the Overhead Garage Door Company for more than 20 years. Active in the Boy Scout program, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout while a member of Troop 8 in Oak Park. He also participated in a Drum and Bugle Corps.

Following the death of his son, he was an active participant in the Gold Star Families Program and thoroughly enjoyed his time working with them. In addition, he was also involved with the Brookfield VFW Post 2868, named in remembrance of his son, Joshua.

Mr. Harris was willing to give his time to his family, friends, and any others who might have needed help. He had a big smile, was a positive thinker, had a marvelous sense of humor, and was loved by all who met him. He volunteered at Hines VA Hospital. One of his last projects was to create large Christmas cutouts for the Village of Brookfield. A former member of Judson Baptist Church in Oak Park and St. John Lutheran Church in Forest Park, he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Burr Ridge.

Bill Harris is survived by his wife, Jean G. Harris; his daughters, Kristin Dutra and Kalyn; his grandchildren, Tyler and Breana; his mother, Virginia C.; and his sisters, Sandra (Edward) Quintrall, Gail, Susan and Mary (John) Raad. He was preceded in death by his son, Joshua, who died while serving in the military in Afghanistan; and his father, William A. Harris.

Services were held on Saturday, Jan. 26 at Trinity Lutheran Church, followed by interment at the church cemetery. The family would appreciate memorials to his church, Wellness House Hinsdale, or the Gold Star Mission.

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